LGR4
LGR4: A Critical Regulator in Stem Cell Biology and Disease
Description
LGR4 (leucine-rich G protein-coupled receptor 4) is a seven-transmembrane protein receptor belonging to the GPCR superfamily. It plays a crucial role in the maintenance and proliferation of stem cells, particularly those found in the digestive tract, hair follicles, and other epithelial tissues.
Associated Diseases
Mutations or dysregulation of LGR4 have been implicated in several human diseases, including:
- Colorectal cancer: LGR4 serves as a stem cell marker for colorectal cancer and its expression levels are associated with tumor growth and progression.
- Gastric cancer: LGR4 overexpression is linked to increased proliferation and invasiveness of gastric cancer.
- Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma: Downregulation of LGR4 expression is associated with poor patient outcomes in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma.
- Pediatric hepatoblastoma: High levels of LGR4 promote tumor growth and metastasis in hepatoblastoma.
- Trichothiodystrophy: Mutations in the LGR4 gene cause trichothiodystrophy, a rare disorder characterized by photosensitivity, skin abnormalities, and brittle hair.
Did you Know ?
- In a study of colorectal cancer patients, researchers found that those with high LGR4 expression had a significantly worse prognosis than those with low LGR4 expression.
